uk train day trips

Learn about the British Pullman

The carriages.

This restored 1920s train has sheltered royalty and been a star of the silver screen. Each whimsically-named carriage has a story to tell. Explore Audrey, Vera, Minerva and more to discover their distinctive personalities. Delight in antique-style marquetry, vintage lighting and heritage upholstery, where our passion for preserving history is evident at every turn.

Damaged in 1940 by air raid at Victoria Station, repaired and rejoined Brighton Belle in 1947. Carried the Queen, the Queen Mother and H.R.H. Prince Philip the Duke of Edinburgh to review the Fleet in 1953. Transported the Queen on her visit to Sussex University 1964.

Cygnus was used in the special Festival of Britain rake in 1951, and was often reserved for use by Royalty and visiting Heads of State. It featured in the film ‘Agatha’ with Vanessa Redgrave and Dustin Hoffman.

In 2021, Cygnus was reimagined by filmmaker Wes Anderson. The new look features stunning symmetrical marquetry, bold rectilinear shapes and a visual feast of complementary colours.

In 1948 was used, with sister car Mona, to convey H.M. Queen Elizabeth (later the Queen Mother) to Brighton. Brighton Belle service withdrawn in 1972. Preserved as a restaurant at The Horseless Carriage, Chingford, Essex, and later at the Colne Valley Railway, Castle Hedingham, Essex.

1925 by Birmingham Railway Carriage & Wagon Co. Sold to La Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits et des Grands Express Européens for service in Italy. History: Purchased by the Pullman Car Company Ltd. in 1928 and returned to Britain for Golden Arrow service. Entered Cunard boat train service between Victoria and Southampton 1952. Retired 1968.

Built in 1928 as a First Class kitchen car. Served on Ocean Liner services and Bournemouth Belle until 1939. Later ran on Queen of Scots, Golden Arrow, Yorkshire Pullman, South of Wales Pullman and the high speed Talisman route before retiring in 1968.

Built in 1928 as a First Class parlour car for the Queen of Scots Pullman. Transferred to Southern Region in 1963 and ran in Bournemouth Belle until 1967. Preserved by Mr E. Lewis-Evans at the South Eastern Steam Centre, Ashford until 1984.

Built in 1927 and served many Pullman routes. Joined the Devon Belle in 1947 and the Golden Arrow in 1951, being used in the special Festival of Britain rake. Often included in special trains for state visits and royal use in the early 50s.

Designed in the 30s but not completed until 1951. Used in the special Festival of Britain rake as part of the Golden Arrow service. Formed part of Winston Churchill’s funeral train in 1965. Part of the last journey of the Golden Arrow in 1972.

Favourite carriage of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother: used by General de Gaulle and visiting Heads of State; made last journey of Golden Arrow 1972. Became stationary restaurant in Lyon, France 1973.

Vera was directly hit in an air raid at Victoria Station in 1940. Roof extensively repaired, she rejoined Brighton Belle in 1947. Used by Royalty to review the Fleet in 1953 and for Prince Charles’ and Princess Anne’s first trip on an electric train in 1954. Brighton Belle service withdrawn in 1972. Preserved as a garden house in Suffolk.

Built in 1928 as a First Class parlour car. After the war, she joined Queen of Scots and Yorkshire Pullman until 1955, and then the Golden Arrow until 1960. Retired in 1965 as part of the final run of the Tees-Tyne Pullman.

Sensational Destinations

Vibrant cities, ancient castles, stately homes and celebrated sporting events... When you step aboard British Pullman, there's a whole world of possible destinations. Discover the historic gems of Bath, York or Canterbury. Feel like royalty as you explore Blenheim Palace or Sandringham. Feel the buzz at key calendar moments, such as the Chelsea Flower Show and Royal Ascot. Wherever you go, you'll start and end your day in style aboard our vintage carriages.

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Unforgettable Experiences

Anticipate a day of lifelong memories without ever leaving the train. Spoil someone special with a classic Afternoon Tea or signature Golden Age of Travel lunch. Dress to impress and step aboard for a glamorous dinner with a renowned celebrity chef. Sleuth your way through a cast of unforgettable characters on an exciting Murder Mystery trip. Soak up the timeless atmosphere and raise a toast as you set off on a round-trip through the beautiful Kentish countryside.

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Wes Anderson is one of the most pioneering directors working today. Now, fans of the director’s distinctive style can embark on a new cinematic adventure about a vintage train carriage.

Dead on Time: A New Murder Mystery

One train. Five courses. Ten suspects. Dead on Time, a brand new immersive murder mystery experience on board a historic 1920s train, sets off from London for a wildly entertaining, irresistibly vintage whodunnit…

Just The Ticket

Luxury train travel is often wistfully remembered as a bygone era, immortalised on the silver screen. Rediscover some of the most memorable portrayals of train travel in cinema, then get ready to plan your own dream trip to relive the romance of the rails.

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Explore Britain by Rail

The romance of rail travel is encapsulated by Belmond British Pullman. Everything comes easily on this luxurious journey, from the beautiful views to the incredible food served onboard. The experience of sipping champagne as you glide through the British countryside in our sumptuous carriages is, quite simply, divine.

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Luxury travel by train and boat enjoys a starry legacy—recalling cinematic glamour, overflowing bubbles and peerless hedonism. From elegant private coupés aboard a 1920s carriage to spacious cabins on elegant river barges, which exclusive adventure will you choose?

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8 Most Scenic Train Rides in the U.K.

From the countryside to charming seaside towns, these U.K. trains offer beautiful views along the way.

From adventurous cross-country journeys to luxurious rides in the world's most beautiful destinations , there's something truly romantic about train travel. It transports passengers to a simpler time, highlighting the joys of slow travel and, of course, showcasing beautiful views along the way.

Luckily, exciting train trips exist around the world, including the U.K., which is home to some of the best, grandest, and most scenic railways. So, if you're seeking a memorable getaway with stunning countryside, seaside town, and city vistas, check out one of these amazing train trips in the U.K.

British Pullman, A Belmond Train, London

Perhaps the most indulgent way to explore England's quaint countryside , Belmond's British Pullman transports passengers back to the Roaring '20s in its storied art deco carriages. A round-trip day trip, the train loops from London Victoria to the historic Chatsworth House , Highclere Castle (of Downton Abbey fame), and Belmond's Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons . The food is delicious and includes seasonal meats, vegetables, and indulgent desserts. For design fans, the Wes Anderson carriage blends art nouveau style, symmetrical lines, and pastel and jewel tones.

Coleraine to Londonderry

If you're pressed for time, the route from Coleraine to Londonderry (or vice versa) takes just 40 minutes. A bog-standard commuter line, the train — once dubbed "one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world" by avid train lover Michael Palin — passes through some of Northern Ireland's loveliest spots . On one side, idyllic pastures and the deep blue sea fill nature's canvas, and on the other, the River Bann roars as far as the eye can see alongside emerald mountains. Tunnels are aplenty, as are period homes, churches, and seaside towns . Castlerock is well worth exploring for its pretty village, and if it isn't too windy, a picnic on the beach. As for what to do in Coleraine, the town itself is steeped in history — the Mountsandel Fort is home to Ireland's most ancient human settlement — but we recommend hopping on a bus and continuing on to Causeway Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site with wonders like the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and Game of Thrones- famous Giant's Causeway.

Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, Scotland

Say hello to Scotland's luxury sleeper train . With space for only 24 passengers, the vibe on board feels intimate and luxurious. En-suite cabins, tasty food (expect lots of Scottish salmon), spa treatments with some of the U.K.'s chicest independent brands, and an observation car with a veranda are just a few standout features. Passengers will see landmarks like the Kyle of Lochalsh and beautiful Cairngorms National Park , a favorite of Queen Elizabeth II. Daydreaming on board once the afternoon tea service hits is mandatory as you snake through Fort William, with spellbinding panoramas of Ben Nevis (the U.K.'s highest mountain) and Arisaig coastline. Luxury amenities aside, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure, too: hiking the gorges of Aviemore, enjoying windy walks on the Isle of Bute, canoeing on the famous Loch Ness; and clay pigeon shooting at the Rothiemurchus estate.

Jacobite Steam Train

It's no surprise that this now-iconic Scottish train is an Instagram favorite — the route from Fort William to Mallaig showcases an otherworldly mix of breathtaking U.K. views (think: craggy mountains, giant lakes, and the photogenic, 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct, famous for its starring role in the Harry Potter films). What you see depends on the time of year. Come summer, expect fields of green and the most luminous of sunsets, while winter brings frozen rivers and giant trees glistening with dagger-like icicles. Tip: Book a seat in advance as they can sell out fast.

Settle—Carlisle Railway

RORY FULLER/TRAVEL + LEISURE

Often overlooked by Brits, the Settle-Carlisle Railway runs through 73 miles of glorious countryside, showcasing ruggedly beautiful and remote spots along the way. The highlights come courtesy of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, home to fragrant heather, wildflowers, dry stone walls, and rolling hills. The stations here are just as beautiful (imagine charming pit stops flecked with hanging, posy-stuffed baskets), and the surroundings include green fields dotted with sheep. Another reason to hop aboard? This route, which launched in 1876, is one of England's last great Victorian journeys.

St. Ives Bay Line

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

This one might only last 10 minutes, but it's still worth it, and you can ride it back and forth as many times as you'd like to make a day of it. Opened in 1877, this stretch of track zooms along the beauteous Cornish coast, a treasure trove of coves, azure seas, white-sand beaches, and beautiful coastal towns once adored by the likes of novelist Virginia Woolf, the odd celebrity, and more. Tip: Sit on the right side of the train for the best views, including a glimpse of the wispy sand dunes that eventually blend into the sparkly waters.

Snowdon Mountain Railway

Although it's more a tourist attraction and necessity for hikers in need of a little help scaling the beautiful Snowdon mountain, this Victorian narrow-gauge railway is still worth a ride, if just for the breezy views. The train departs every 30 minutes from Llanberis station, and it takes roughly one hour to reach the summit. Along the way, have your cameras ready to capture centuries-old farmhouses, ancient walls, the odd goat, and the towering Ceunant Mawr waterfall, which plunges more than 100 feet into a cavernous gorge. As it's pretty old, part of the way is blocked off, so the train currently only runs as far as Clogwyn. There, you'll be able to jump off and walk the rest of the way to Hafod Eryri (closed until 2023) to take in the panoramic vistas. If you're lucky, a clear day will allow you to see all the way to the coast of Ireland.

Caledonian Sleeper

Believe it or not, this is one of only two sleeper train services left in the U.K., connecting London to Edinburgh via the scenic Lowlander and Highlander routes that weave through Scotland . But this is no ordinary ride. Thanks to a 2019 makeover, this train is more like a hotel on rails: There are cabins with snuggly double beds, swish en-suite bathrooms, and for a dose of extra atmosphere, dimmable lights. A rather fancy dining cart ensures bellies are fed for the 500-mile, eight-hour journey. Choose from all the usual contenders, plus Scottish delicacies such as haggis and tatties (potatoes) served with a whiskey cream sauce. It's also worth waking up early to catch dawn breaking over the Northumbria countryside.

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The 11 most scenic train journeys in the UK

Want to plan a big railway trip for your next staycation? Here’s our pick of the most beautiful train journeys in the UK

Whether you’re keen to admire the stunning vistas of the Scottish countryside, or just after a setting to pretend you’re in a music video, staring longingly out at the mesmerising beaches of Cornwall or the mountains of Wales , these train journeys will make you feel like the main character in the window seat. 

You could be a solo traveller craving some luxury transport, or just looking to take the kids on a wholesome family day out – either way, these railway trips will have you covered. Stretching from the very top of the country in Mallaig to the very bottom down in St Ives – and right across to Coleraine in Northern Ireland – here’s where to get your railway fix on your next UK holiday. All aboard!

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Best train journeys in the UK

1.  The Jacobite Steam Train

All aboard the Hogwarts Express! Okay, you don’t have to be a Potterhead to get into the majesty of this stunning route. Scotland’s Jacobite Steam Train traverses the gorgeous landscape between Fort William and Mallaig, offering up a conveyor belt of rugged scenery that belies the comfort and luxury inside the train itself. Booking ahead is an absolute must, but it is 100 percent worth it. Few train journeys on the planet come with the grandeur of the Jacobite Steam Train.

2.  North Norfolk Poppy Line

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again, but North Norfolk might just be the most underrated part of England. The entire coast is an absolute delight, filled with gorgeous seaside villages and a very real sense of charm, and the so-called ‘Poppy Line’ is an adorable way to explore it. The heritage steam train runs the short distance between Sheringham and Holt (with options to go further at either end) and is an exercise in beautiful nostalgia that will practically drag serenity into your day. Yes, that is something of a contradiction, but it fits. 

3.  St Ives Bay Line

Okay, it might only be a ten-minute journey, but that just means that you can go back and forth on the St Ives Bay Line as many times as you like during the day. Why wouldn’t you? This 4.25-mile stretch of seaside sumptuousness was opened in 1877, the last of the new broad gauge railways to be opened in the UK, although standard gauge has since taken over. Of course, you’re not here for gauge history, you are here for impossibly quaint seaside views and that special delight that only Cornwall can provide. 

4.  Snowdonia Mountain Railway

Scratching and clawing your way to the top of Mount Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa in Welsh) is one of the most exhilarating experiences in Wales, but all that scratching and clawing does sound sort of tiring, right? If slugging up the mountain isn’t your idea of fun, the Snowdonia Mountain Railway is here to save the day. Trains leave from the gorgeous village of Llanberis and slowly climb the mountain, stopping at the top for incredible views and a real sense of achievement.

5.  The Flying Scotsman

A real piece of history here, albeit only really in the name. The original Flying Scotsman still takes short, special journeys in the UK (in the south of England, mostly), and tickets sell out quickly, but why not jump on the spiritual successor of the famous train and make the journey between the capitals of Scotland and England instead? London to Edinburgh is a trip from one powerhouse to the other, a route that takes you through the whole of England – a curious look into the North/South divide.

6.  Settle to Carlisle

The North really is blessed with some beautiful train routes, isn’t it? The beloved Settle to Carlisle line runs across 73 miles of gorgeous countryside, showcasing Yorkshire Dales and the North Pennines at their most rugged and remote. It is stunning stuff and has been a point of pilgrimage for train enthusiasts since passengers first jumped aboard in 1876. The journey takes 90 minutes (delays notwithstanding, this is the UK, after all), and tickets start at £8.50.

7.  Ffestiniog Railway

Fancy taking a short trip on the oldest independent railway company in the world? Of course you do, and you’ll find the little train that could waiting in the heart of Wales. The Ffestiniog Railway runs from the harbour of Porthmadog to the mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog, passing through Snowdonia National Park as it does, ensuring some incredible views and a palpable sense of history within the carriages. The company offers plenty of journeys, but the three-hour charmer between Porth and Blaenau is the one to go for. 

8.  Londonderry to Coleraine

Northern Ireland’s prettiest rail line? While it’s a beautiful place from east to west, the stretch of tracks between Londonderry and Coleraine is right up there. The railway has plenty of history (more than 170 years of the stuff), but passengers can be forgiven for eschewing that in favour of the views waiting outside the window. You simply won’t get better rolling views of the coast than from the comfortable seat of a 3000 class DMU, trundling between the two towns. Michael Palin called it ‘one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world’, and he wasn’t wrong. 

9.  North Yorkshire Moors Railway

North Yorkshire is a treasure trove for railway lovers. As well as being a beautiful city with few equals, York is also home to the National Railway Museum, an absolute must-visit for anyone with even the most rudimentary interest in trains. The North York Moors National Park is truly sumptuous, and no prizes for guessing where the North Yorkshire Moors Railway runs. Yes, that’s right, smack-bang through the aforementioned sumptuous scenery. The journey from Pickering to Whitby takes almost two hours, and tickets start from £45, although members get big discounts.

10.  Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh

Two hours and 45 minutes (give or take a minute or two) of absolute rural bliss. The northern reaches of Scotland are Britain at its most beautiful, and the views afforded to passengers from the cars of the Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh line are as good as it gets. Ttickets cost £15.90, an absolute bargain considering the beauty outside the window. 

11.  Bluebell Railway

Even the name is all sorts of adorable. The UK offers a fine line of heritage steam railways, and the darling Bluebell Railway down in Sussex is one of the best. Originally opened in 1882, it actually closed in 1958 – sparking a preservation society into action, in the hopes of restoring as much of the original line as possible. They did a darn good job, and today the Bluebell is a time machine, taking you back to the days of steam engines trundling from Sheffield Park to East Grinstead. The journey takes around 40 minutes, and advance tickets cost £25.

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Our day trips are the ideal full-day adventure. Our destinations include some Britain’s most loved national treasures, Areas of Outstanding National Beauty, ancient Cathedral cities, maritime favourites, Celtic adventures, and medieval wonders.

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Train & Rail Tours in UK and Great Britain

Relax and admire breathtaking views in UK And Great Britain only accessible by train journey. With 14 UK And Great Britain train tours lasting from 2 days up to 15 days, you're sure to find a railway carriage with your name on it on a route that will leave you speechless.

14 Train tour packages in UK and Great Britain with 14 reviews

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Highlights of Scotland

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England and Scotland Tour with hotel stay & rail return to London - 8 days

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

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ONE FOR THE ROAD

Well planned itinerary leaving little stress to planning next move but flexible enough to tweak things up to fit your scand preference. I had issues with luggage and airlines and although the access interailing packages had to impact my issues was limited to none, they were available, empathetic and offered suggestions to consider. Have already recommended this site and operator to others. Thank you for the part you played in this memorable experience!

Loch Ness, the Jacobite and Skye Guided Rail Tour

Fabulous tour guide and drivers, beautiful scenery and very nice hotels. Train was fun but there was a strike on the train so we had to go by coach a little more than we would have liked. Also would have liked to go to more castles but r do other activities other than just driving and looking at scenery. Easily could have done the other distillery as well as go inside more castles. It was nice to have time on our own as well as very few early mornings.

Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way Guided Rail Tour

If you have to do a tour, because Irish roads are scary and the signs in towns are confusing, McKinlay Kidd is a good choice.

Jacobite Steam Train & The Great Glen

Excellent tour guide. Fantastic history. Great views. Made the most of the train being cancelled.

Titanic Trail Trail & Wild Atlantic Way including Donegal

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Britain by train: Five great one-week UK rail trip routes

Posted on Last updated: December 11, 2023

Explore Britain by train with five of the best British rail trip itinerary ideas you can do in just one week, covering historic England, scenic Scotland, the Cornish coast, UK cities, and Wales and the Borders.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

I love a good rail trip and have travelled by train across Europe and beyond. But there are plenty of fantastic rail adventures close to home in the UK too – from Cornish coastal trains to the journeys across the wild Scottish highlands. And the country’s relatively small size means you can pack a lot into a short time, with rail passes available to keep costs down.

Whether you’re looking for history and culture, coast and countryside scenery or the UK’s coolest cities, there’s the perfect British rail trip for you. So here are five great itineraries for exploring Britain by train. It’s possible to do each of the routes in a week, but if you’ve got more time you can take it slower and spend more time in each place.

And if you’re ready to go, check out my detailed one-week itinerary posts – linked to after each route description below – for full details of which trains to take, how much they cost, how to book tickets, what to see and where to stay along the way.

5 itineraries for exploring Britain by train

Historic England

London > Salisbury > Bath Spa > Oxford > Stratford-upon-Avon > York

This rail trip takes you across England and back through time, featuring some of the country’s most impressive castles, cathedrals and colleges. Start with a full day in London , choosing from its selection of historic buildings, museums and monuments, including the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, British Museum and Shakespeare’s Globe.

Then catch a morning train to Salisbury (1.5 hours). This riverside city is known for its 13th-century cathedral, where you can see one of the surviving copies of the Magna Carta and take a tour of the tower. Or travel back 2000 years to Roman times at Old Sarum.

Next travel to Bath Spa (1 hour). Bath is known for its Roman history, so don’t miss the Roman Baths – and you can soak yourself in the modern version at the Thermae Spa with its rooftop pool. There’s also the beautiful Georgian architecture of the Royal Crescent and Circle, and whole festival dedicated to Jane Austen who lived in the city in the 1800s.

Then take the train to Oxford (1 hour 10 mins), one of the UK’s most famous university cities. Take a tour of the college quads – Harry Potter filming location Christ Church is the star, but Magdalen, New College, Trinity and All Souls are also well worth visiting.

Call in to the quirky Pitt Rivers Museum to see its anthropology exhibits or explore art and antiquities at the Ashmolean Museum. Then catch a morning train to Stratford-upon-Avon (1.5 hours). Spent the afternoon in Shakespeare’s home town – you can visit his birthplace, school and houses his wife and mother lived in, and see his plays at the RSC theatre.

Then finish your trip by travelling north to York (4 hours), where you’ll have the afternoon and the next morning to walk the Roman city walls, visit the Minster, explore the cobbled lanes and half-timbered buildings of the Shambles and have afternoon tea at Betty’s.

Read the full Historic England by train itinerary

Scenic Scotland

Edinburgh > Glasgow > Fort William > Mallaig > Isle of Skye > Inverness

This Scottish rail itinerary takes you from the lowlands to the highlands via rugged coastlines, lakes, moors and castles. Start in Edinburgh and spend the day discovering the city’s highlights, from Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile to the Palace of Holyroodhouse and views from Calton Hill. Or discover hidden gems like underground Mary King’s Close .

Then catch the train on to Glasgow (1 hour), where the focus is on art, design and culture – from street art trails and the eye-catching modern Riverside transport museum along the redeveloped waterside to the Art Nouveau buildings of Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

Next head north to Fort William (3 hours 45 mins), a lochside town that’s a hub for adventure sports in the nearby Nevis Range. The journey takes you into the Scottish Highlands along the West Highland Line, rated as one of the most scenic rail trips in the world. Go hiking or biking, or taste whisky with a view at the Ben Nevis Distillery.

Rejoin the West Highland Line to travel across the Glenfinnan Viaduct to Mallaig (1.5 hours) – or from April to October you could upgrade to a ride on the Jacobite steam train , also known as the Hogwarts Express from the Harry Potter films. Then leave the train behind and cross over to the Isle of Skye on the ferry from Mallaig to Armadale.

Spend a day exploring the Isle of Skye by bus or tour, with the pretty harbour town of Portree, the waterfalls of the Fairy Pools and the dramatic rock formations of the Quiraing. Then the following morning, cross the bridge to Kyle of Lochalsh by bus (1 hour) where you can catch the train to Inverness (2 hours 40 mins), capital of the highlands.

The Kyle Line is another of the UK’s top scenic train routes, passing lochs, mountains and herds of deer. Spend the evening and next morning in Inverness. Explore the castle and riverside, take a monster-spotting trip on Loch Ness or visit historic Culloden battlefield.

Read the full Scenic Scotland by train itinerary

The Cornish coast

St Ives > Falmouth > St Austell > Newquay > Looe > Plymouth

This UK train trip takes you to the far south-west of England, along some of Cornwall’s most beautiful coastal and countryside railways. Start off in the arty seaside town of St Ives , home to the Tate and Barbara Hepworth galleries along with beaches and coast walks.

If you’re travelling from London you can get reach St Ives on the Night Riviera overnight sleeper train (8 hours), changing at St Erth onto the St Ives Bay Line which runs past the golden sands of Carbis Bay. Then travel east to Falmouth (1.5 hours), changing in Truro onto the Maritime Line which runs through unspoilt countryside to the coast.

Visit Falmouth’s castle and maritime museum, or take a boat ride along the Fal River or across to neighbouring St St Mawes and the Roseland Peninsula. Then take a morning train to St Austell (1.5 hour) where you change onto a bus to reach the Eden Project, whose two giant biomes bring the rainforest and the Mediterranean to Cornwall.

Head back to St Austell to catch the train along the Atlantic Coast Line to Newquay (1 hour 20 mins). Check out some of Newquay’s 11 beaches and watch the surfers in action on Fistral Beach – or give it a try yourself. Grad a traditional Cornish pasty and watch the fishing boats come into Newquay harbour, or head underwater at Blue Reef Aquarium.

Then travel on to the pretty fishing village of Looe (3 hours). The Looe Valley scenic train line connects Liskeard and Looe, running along an estuary full of birdlife. Walk a stretch of the South West Coast Path to Polperro or visit the marine nature reserve of Looe Island, and make sure to try some local seafood and wine from Looe Valley Vineyard.

Finally travel on to your final stop in Plymouth (1 hour). Take a walk along the city’s waterfront, climb to the top of Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse and follow the journey of the Pilgrims at the Mayflower Museum before heading home – or exploring more of Devon.

Read the full Coastal Cornwall by train itinerary

London > Brighton > Bristol > Manchester > Liverpool > Leeds

This city-centric train route takes you to some of the UK’s coolest cities, with coffee shops, vintage shops, street art and quirky bars along the way. Start off in London and the East End’s most hipster neighbourhood – Shoreditch. Visit Brick Lane market, take a graffiti tour and try food from around the world at the Box Park shipping container pop-up market.

Then catch the train south of London to Brighton (1 hour 15 mins) for a day at the seaside. Visit the Brighton Pavilion, browse the indie shops in the narrow streets of the Lanes and play the slot machines on the pier before tucking into fish and chips on the beach.

The next day travel west to Bristol (1.5 hours). This harbourside city is a centre for independent food, art and craft businesses. Try tasty street food at St Nicholas Market or at Cargo in Wapping Wharf, and go Banksy spotting in Stokes Croft. Visit Brunel’s historic steamship the SS Great Britain or walk over Clifton Suspension Bridge at sunset.

Catch the train north to Manchester (3 hours). This north-west city famous for its football and music is a great place to catch a gig or shop for vinyl and vintage fashion before a night in the Northern Quarter’s bars. Or visit the museums and media hubs of Salford Quays.

Then from Manchester, it’s only around an hour by train to local rivals Liverpool. Check out the exhibits at the Tate Liverpool and Merseyside Maritime Museum in the Albert Dock, or take a Beatles themed walking tour and catch the ferry across the Mersey.

Then finally travel north-east to the West Yorkshire city of Leeds (1.5 hours). Discover local artworks on the Leeds Welcome Art Trail, visit the Corn Exchange for boutique shops in a stunning setting, sunbathe in Roundhay Park or take a tour of Leeds’ craft breweries.

Read the full UK cities by train itinerary

Wales and the Borders

Cardiff > Shrewsbury > Aberystwyth > Harlech > Llandudno > Chester > Cardiff

Our final Britain by train itinerary takes you across Wales, travelling from the capital through the unspoilt Welsh Marches to the spectacular coastline and mountains of North Wales. Start in Cardiff and spend the day exploring its historic side at the castle and its modern side among the contemporary buildings of redeveloped Cardiff Bay.

Then catch the train north to Shrewsbury (2 hours), a traditional market town across the border which was home to Charles Darwin. Visit its castle and take a boat trip on the River Severn. Then head back into Wales and the coastal town of Aberystwyth (2 hours) – a seaside holiday favourite with its sandy beach, Victorian promenade and Wales’ oldest pier.

Next catch the Cambrian Coast Line north through Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park to Harlech (3 hours), with scenic views along the way as you cross the estuary at Barmouth. Then explore Harlech’s hilltop castle or take an afternoon trip to the nearby quirky, Italian-style village of Portmeirion (the closest station is at Minffordd, 15 mins from Harlech).

Next head to Porthmadog (25 mins) and change onto the Ffestiniog Railway’s historic steam trains to travel to Blaenau Ffestionig in style (1 hour 20 mins). (Note the Ffestiniog Railway only runs from March–October, so outside of that you’ll need to take a bus.)

Then head back into the 21st century as you travel on to Llandudno (1 hour 15 mins). Another of Wales’ Victorian seaside resorts, Llandudno has panoramic views from Great Orme, which you can reach on foot or via the vintage tram or Llandudno Cable Car.

Finally travel across the border to Chester (1 hour 20 mins). Explore the city’s Roman ruins, walk around its city walls, admire the Eastgate Clock and shop the medieval black and white Rows. Then finish off your trip by travelling south back to Cardiff, passing the impressive Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Herefordshire countryside and Shropshire Hills.

Read the full Borders and Wales by train itinerary

Don’t want to organise it yourself? You can also book a custom rail trip based on any of our Britain by train itineraries through our partners Byway ,* the flight-free holiday platform, which include transport and accommodation.

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Gregory Bass

Monday 15th of January 2024

Hey Lucy I enjoy reading about all your travels and Itineraries but feel that it would somewhat overwhelming for me to plan. It has been a dream of mine to travel the UK by car or train. Twenty years ago I traveled Spain and Portugal by train but there was no planning involved. I was younger and just took a train to a city or town and if I liked it I stayed and if I didn't I moved on. I have also planned a year of traveling the west coast of the US for work when I was younger and that was before GPS. I just don't feel I know where to start. We definitely will want London as the starting point and Harry Potter is a must have since my husband is crazy about the series. We plan on spending anywhere from 10 to 15 days and that will all depend on what we try to squeeze into our trip. I was wondering if you had any ideas on how to start and what to do and see that are must dos. I would want to depart from London as well so whatever we do will have to include returning to London. We like nice accommodations but don't want to break the bank. Our travel schedule would be sometime between May thru August of 2025. I do have friends that live there so some downtime to allow visits with them would be needed as well. Any suggestions you can give would be greatly appreciated.

Lucy Dodsworth

Monday 22nd of January 2024

Hi Gregory, if you want to book through a company I would recommend Byway who can organise custom train itineraries and book all the train travel and hotels for you. With 10–15 days you could cover a lot of the UK depending on what your interests are, or add on a trip on the Eurostar to Paris or Amsterdam.

Wednesday 31st of May 2023

Hi Lucy This site is great! My husband and I will be arriving at Southampton after a transatlantic cruise on Sat April 20, 2024. We don't have our return flight plans yet as we are hoping to stay in England for at least a week. In 2012 we spent a month (Sept) traveling and sightseeing the UK by rail and had a great time - carrying only backpacks. We had time to visit the popular spots: London, Bath, York, Chester, Edinburgh, Loch Ness, Penzance, Bournemouth, Aberystwyth and much of Wales. This time (we are older!) and we will have luggage (ugh). We are thinking about exploring some less touristy places and poking around smaller villages, etc. Maybe staying at a B&B or somewhere that is centrally located and near a well connected train station where we can take day trips or short rail excursions in and out. Is that possible or even a good idea? Where would you suggest? Do we need a travel agent? I expect we will depart from Heathrow. Any advice will be appreciated!!

Sunday 25th of June 2023

Hi Martha, one area I'd definitely recommend is the Cotswolds. You can stay in Moreton-in-Marsh which is on a mainline train route from London and get from there via train to Oxford and Stratford-on-Avon, and there is a good Cotswold tour from Moreton as well as buses to places like Broadway, Chipping Campden and Stow-on-the-Wold. I have a whole website about the Cotswolds with lots of info (https://explorethecotswolds.com) and it's easy to explore without needing a travel agent.

Tuesday 23rd of May 2023

Hi Lucy, We are going to be in UK for 14 total days (not including travel to and from the US). We want to do two of these (exactly what I was thinking and perfectly laid out, thank you!). Wondering if you can help me understand the best way to buy the train tickets. We are family of 4 with an 18 yr old and 16 yr old. Starting and ending in London - want to do this: London > Salisbury > Bath Spa > Oxford > Stratford-upon-Avon > York - then from York do this: Glasgow > Fort William > Mallaig > Isle of Skye > Edinburgh to catch the Tattoo then back down to London. Maybe I need a travel agent to help :-)

Friday 26th of May 2023

You can buy tickets for specific trains in advance from the rail companies but it might be worth looking at getting a railpass – either an InterRail One Country Pass for the UK or a Britrail pass – as that means you can be more flexible. You can buy these in advance online and there are good discounts for under 25s.

Thursday 27th of February 2020

This info is amazing, thank you for posting Lucy! I am researching/looking into traveling to the UK (specifically Scotland) for the first time (coming from Toronto, Canada) this year and wasn't really sure where to start in terms of transportation once I arrived. I have bookmarked your page just for future reference. These routes and links will be so helpful, especially for a newbie to the area.

Also, love your blog & will definitely check out more of your recommendations .

Monday 9th of March 2020

Thanks Amy, great to hear it was useful! And have a wonderful trip.

Ellen D Leeper

Wednesday 25th of September 2019

Hi Lucy, What a comprehensive and great resource! I heard dogs are allowed on trains in the UK? Any feedback on that? I have a small guy but we are doing a couple months in the UK and Scotland so thinking trains vs. driving are the way to go. Thanks for such a great website! I'll watch this one!

Thursday 26th of September 2019

Hi, yes you can take dogs on trains in the UK so you should be fine with that!

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Take lovely day trips by train from five great UK locations

Fab British holidays by taking day trips from Glasgow, Leeds, Reading, Manchester, or The Cambrian Coast.

Yes it would be rather wonderful if some of the long-lost rail routes in scenic areas were still available, but the majority of Britain’s many outstanding areas of natural beauty can still be accessed by train . Even more thrillingly steam trains now make their way along a multitude of once closed lines in many stunning locations. So it’s straightforward to combine the best aspects of a city break along with days spent traveling across beautiful landscapes to a multitude of charming destinations, where it’s possible to relax away from the demands of everyday life.

And despite the complications of British train ticketing, for pretty much every journey suggested on this guide, off-peak Day Return tickets , will be money savers, even when booking at the station just prior to boarding. And if you meet the criteria there's likely to be a railcard available , which will pay back its costs once you have taken the train to a location and made just one or two day trips - on journeys which don't have higher prices in summer and during school holidays!

from Glasgow:

Glasgow has the edge over Edinburgh as a base for exploring the best of Scotland by train, and its accommodation prices tend to be cheaper than those in the Scottish capital.

And if you stay in Glasgow you don’t have to miss out on experiencing the wonders of Scotland’s capital. Two to four new trains per hour operate over the fastest route between the two cities and the journey takes less than 45 minutes – plus the final train of the day back to Glasgow doesn’t usually depart from Edinburgh until after 23:00.

Though as you'll see below, if you have already opted to spend time in Edinburgh instead, a holiday there can also be made even more wonderful by taking easy day trips by train .

What makes Glasgow a great base for exploring by train is that it’s closer than Edinburgh to the beautiful islands off the West Coast, which have easy rail access, plus the city is also the starting point of the incredible West Highland Line .

The Jacobite steam train makes its majestic journeys over the spectacular part of the railway between Mallaig and Fort William from late May to late October and taking a ride on it is possible on a magnificent day trip from Glasgow (except on Sundays). Despite the distance you won’t have to rise before dawn, because the train to Mallaig will usually be scheduled to depart from Glasgow Queen Street station at 08:23. You will arrive in Mallaig before the steam train departs for Fort William at 14:10 and with an easily timed connection, you’ll be back in Glasgow in good time for a night cap.

Or if heading to the end of the line in Mallaig does seem a tad daunting, then an alternative is to experience the journey on the West Highland line by taking a trip to the coastal town of Oban , pretty much the perfect location for a late lunch.

Heading off from Oban to explore the islands of the Inner Hebrides isn’t possible on a day trip from Glasgow, but simple as can be connections between trains and ferries make it easy to experience two of the beautiful islands in the Firth of Clyde.

It takes less than a couple of hours to reach the gorgeous isle of Bute on a combination of a train from Central station to Wemyss Bay and the ferry to Rothesay . The delightful ferry crossing takes 35 minutes and then on arrival you can see the best of Bute by touring the island on an open-topped bus.

And or head off to the island of Arran , from Glasgow Central station by connecting to the ferry at Ardrossan Harbour station. It’s possible to depart Glasgow at 09:15 and step off the ferry in Arran at noon – though check the timetable . Due to the variety amidst its stunning landscape, Arran has been described as Scotland in miniature and a network of local bus routes link the ferry terminal to beauty spots across the island. In summer the final ferry of the day back to Ardrossan usually departs from Brodick at 19:20.

For steam train fans The Jacobite isn’t the only journey into the past that can be easily accessed from Glasgow. A gorgeous idea is to have an afternoon tea on the beautiful Strathspey Railway which shares the station in Aviemore with the mainline trains. You won’t usually have to depart Glasgow Queen Street station until 10:39, though the optimum connections aren’t available on Sundays. Having the tea isn’t compulsory, you can just sit back and enjoy the ride on a steam train.

The journey between Glasgow and Aviemore will take around 2hr 45mins, but the scenery on most of the train ride is fabulous, particularly north of Perth.

Or if you don’t want to travel so far, there are a multitude of other fabulous destinations which can be easily accessed from the newly enhanced Queen Street station .

to Dundee and / or St Andrews

Every hour express trains depart for Dundee where the wonderful V & A Museum in Dundee is across the street from the station. Whether you do or don’t want to take the time out to explore Dundee, you can travel on to St.Andrews, with the next stage of the journey taking you over the incredible Tay Bridge .

Frequent buses meet the trains at Leuchars station and the transfer into the centre of lovely St Andrews takes around 10 minutes.

to Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle, The Falkirk Wheel

• Or head off to Balloch on the shore of Loch Lomond there are trains every 30 minutes from the lower level platforms at Queen Street station;
• Visit Stirling Castle , the journey by frequent trains takes under 40 min;
• Or experience The Falkirk Wheel - there are trains every 30 mins from Queen Street to Falkirk Grahamston station (avoid the trains going to Faklkirk High), then from there, take bus route/line 6 to the wheel.

If you want to head off on the longer suggested journeys to Aviemore (for the Strathspey Railway; Mallaig (for the Jacobite) or to Oban, you likely will save money and have assigned seats on the trains if you book Advance tickets - in effect you'll be booking two single tickets for each direction of travel.

Though when booking, also check the price of Day Return tickets. You should also be offered these because you will have entered the same date for the outward and return journeys. Then compare this Day Return price with the Advance tickets, once you have selected journeys for both directions of travel. You'll particularly want to compare the total costs of travelling each way with 2 x Advance tickets (these tickets are one-way tickets) with the Day Return price.

Also keep in mind that if you book Advance tickets ahead of your trip, you will then be commited to travellling by the trains you chose when booking, so will lose out finacially if you then were to change your plans once you're in Glasgow.

If you head to Rothesay on Bute, or Brodick on Arran, book Rail+Sea tickets which include both the train and ferry. You should be automatically offered these when telling the booking agent at the ticket office that you're final destination will be Rothesay or Brodick, or if you select these locations as destinations when using a ticket machine.

from Leeds:

The main station in Leeds is the busiest in northern England, because of the high number of routes taken by the trains which use it. Those multiple routes mean that there are a swathe of picturesque destinations that can be accessed from Leeds on simple day trips by train including Knaresborough (easily combined with a visit to Harrogate ) and Ikley , or Hebden Bridge .

Easy access to other cities

Plus there are also other must see cities that are less than an hour from Leeds by train including Manchester and York – where the National Railway Museum is a five minute walk from the station and the gorgeous city centre can be reached in 10 - 15 minutes.

What makes Leeds a particularly splendid location for railway exploration is that the trains which travel the length of England’s most beautiful railway, commence their journeys at Leeds station.

Though check the departure times (Route 7), as the service isn't particularly frequent.

Appleby is a charming market town, but that isn’t why it’s being suggested as a location to head to on a day trip from Leeds by train. It’s because the trains to Appleby from Leeds travel traverse the Settle and Carlisle line , which is without doubt England’s most scenic long-distance train journey. It takes 80 minutes for trains to travel over the most dramatic section of the route between the stations in Skipton and Appleby; longer than many of Europe’s most acclaimed railway journeys, such as the route through the Rhine Gorge, or a ride or Norway’s Flamsbana.

So heading to Appleby from Leeds by train isn’t a particularly eccentric idea, considering that most people who take a journey on the Flamsbana do so because of the views that can be appreciated from the train windows, and not because Flam is a must visit destination.

Walk across the Dales

If you want to make multiple stops along the Settle and Carlisle Line, in order to talk a walk from Dent, England’s highest station, or to see more of the Ribblehead Viaduct, or to have tea in Settle , then it can be worth purchasing a Day Ranger ticket .

Stop over at Saltaire

On the return to Leeds an idea is to make a straightforward connection in Skipton to take a train to Saltaire, the station which serves the fascinating village with U.N.E.S.C.O. heritage status. Steps away from the station is the majestic Salts Mill which houses art works by David Hockney. Or an option is to head to Saltaire from Leeds on a separate day trip by train, the station is served by a minimum of two trains per hour and the journey takes less than 15 minutes.

For those with a penchant for a ride on a steam train, another location along this Settle And Carlisle line, which makes for a fabulous day out is Keighley, because its station is shared with the wonderful Keighley and Worth Valley Railway . There are a minimum of two trains per hour from Leeds to Keighley and the journey takes less than 45 minutes.

If it’s available on the day on which you pay a visit, riding on the vintage open top bus across the Yorkshire Moors from Oxenhope to Haworth station is highly recommended. And as the railway also calls at Haworth station, which is the village in which the Bronte sisters resided, combining a ride on the steam train with a visit to the Bronte Parsonage , is a grand day out. And for those with a special affection for the cinematic wonder that is The Railway Children , lingering at Oakworth station is a nostalgia-fest.

to the North Yorkshire Moors Railway

Another steam railway that can be accessed from Leeds is the glorious North Yorkshire Moors Railway . Though a visit needs to be planned with care as a journey from Leeds involves heading to Malton station by train, from where Coastliner buses on the 840 route can take you on to Pickering where the stream trains can be boarded. The bus stop in Malton is right by the train station and in Pickering it will be a 10 minute walk to the railway.

Show your bus ticket at Pickering station to obtain a 20% discount for the gorgeous ride on the trains which will transport you to the charming fishing port of Whitby. There will be time to have a fish and chip supper by the harbor side before heading back to Leeds on the return journey.

But before heading off from Leeds, check the railway timetable so that you can plan your optimum connections.

from Reading:

On the list of the UK’s most visited towns and cities , most of the inclusions are predictable, Manchester, Edinburgh, Liverpool etc, but Reading was an unexpected entry. The town isn’t exceptionally beautiful, it’s not particularly historical it and isn’t the home of any noteworthy museums and galleries. But what Reading does have is a fabulous location, as it lies on the busy rail route between London and numerous other must-see destinations to the west of the capital.

The town’s one outstanding architectural statement is its newly enhanced railway station . Reading possesses one of the UK’s largest stations because it’s the gateway to the best of the west of England. Many of the towns and cities that are on that most visited list, including Bath , Bristol and Oxford are within easy reach of Reading on journeys which take less than 60 minutes, by trains which depart at least twice an hour during the day.

If you visited those cities from London, your journey in each direction would be 25-30 minutes longer, but because those fast trains and many more, all call at Reading when making their journeys to and from the capital, London is within exceptionally easy reach. There are at least four or more non-stop trains to Paddington station from Reading in every hour and the journey to Paddington station takes less than 30 minutes, so a day trip, or two, or more, to the capital is an easy option.

The opening of the Elizabeth line has transformed for the better the access on from Paddington to many of London's most popular tourist locations.

The River Thames flows through Reading, but nearby towns along the river bank within easy reach by train, are more charming locations in which to have a lunch or tea by the waterside. A simple connection in Twyford, takes you to Henley-on-Thames , and/or you can change trains in Maidenhead in order to visit Marlow . Both of these charming towns can be accessed in around 45 minutes/

to Richmond

Reading also has two direct trains per hour to Richmond , with a journey time of 70 minutes, where both the riverbank and its park , make for a splendid day out - but there is one town along the Thames which reigns above all others on the must-see list, and that is Windsor .

With a simple connection at Slough available twice per hour, the train journey from Reading to Windsor takes a little over 30 minutes. Although it’s best to head off on Mondays to Saturdays, as St Georges’ Chapel, the location of the wedding of the Duke and Duchess Of Sussex, isn’t open to visitors to the castle on Sundays.

For those who want to base a holiday around destinations with easy access by train, because of an enthusiasm for railways, there are also two attractions within easy reach of Reading that are a must for steam railway fans, namely the Didcot Railway Centre and the Steam Museum in Swindon.

From Machynlleth (on the Welsh Coast)

For those seeking easy access to beautiful Welsh countryside and beaches without having to use a car, then the charming small town of Machynlleth is a great holiday destination. It’s packed with attractions for the days when you won’t want to head off and explore, but it’s also ideal for those who enjoy a day by the seaside.

to Aberystwyth or Aberdovey

The charming resort towns of Aberystwyth , the cliff railway in the town is pictured at the very top of the page, and Aberdovey/Aberdyfi with their lovely beaches can be accessed by train in under 30 mins.

to Barmouth

While a journey of not much than an hour takes you to picturesque Barmouth . If the weather is fine, an idea is to leave the train at Morfa Mawddach, the station before Barmouth, so that you can enter the town by using the footpath, beside the railway over the stunning Barmouth Bridge .

Machynlleth is also a particularly great location for those who want to experience the utterly wonderful Great Little Trains Of Wales . In Aberystwyth, less than 30 minutes from Machynlleth, there is an easy connection to the beautiful Vale of Rheidol Railway

and in Talyllyn, which is also around 30 mins away by train, there is a very easy connection to the Talyllyn Railway .

to the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways

Machynlleth also has direct trains to Porthmadog for the the Ffestiniog Railway

and the West Highland Railway .

Though if you want to travel the full length of both of those lines, you’ll need to make two day trips from Machynlleth to Porthmadog to make separate journeys by each of the railways. However, doing so will involve another yet more opportunities to experience the glorious coastal scenery that can be seen from this Cambrian Line . When heading northwards along Cardigan Bay, take a seat on the left when boarding the trains in Machynlleth.

There are other towns, which are also great bases for day trips, there is the possibility to explore Snowdonia and beyond by train (and bus) from Bangor or to see the best of North Wales on day trips from Llandudno .

From Manchester:

Manchester is a fabulous city, but ShowMeTheJourney’s decision to spend a holiday there raised a few eyebrows, despite the city's makeover from industrial grit and grime to the north of England’s version of New York. What drew me to Manchester for pleasure rather than business was that its city centre is the only location in England outside of London, which is still ringed by magnificent stations. So a place to stay in the heart of the city, by the tram routes that now link Piccadilly and Victoria stations, is a fabulous location for an extended break.

That’s because trains from those stations provide easy access to other fabulous cities, head to Victoria station and up to 4 brand brand new trains per hour, can transport you in under 50 minutes to the centres of Leeds and Liverpool . On arrival at Liverpool Lime Street station I hopped on a local train to Blundellsands & Crosby station in order to see Anthony Gormley’s Another Place a long term fixture on the bucket list. The local train then took me back to James Street station, close by Liverpool’s fabulous waterfront area.

to Bradford

Another wonderful city just over an hour from Manchester by train, on trains which depart every 30 minutes, is Bradford, home of the National Science and Media Museum . Those trains between Manchester Victoria station and Bradford also call in the charming towns of Halifax and Hebden Bridge so it’s possible to take in two or three of these must-see locations on a single day trip.

Or another option is to walk across Bradford city centre to Forster Square station, because from there, every 30 minutes, trains head to Saltaire, the station which serves the fascinating village with U.N.E.S.C.O. heritage status. Steps away from the station is the majestic Salts Mill . Those trains to Saltaire continue on to Keighley where the station is shared with the fabulous Keighley and Worth Valley Railway . (OR both Saltaire and Keighley can also be reached on a different day thanks to an easy connection at Leeds station).

What Manchester also offers is easy access by train to some of England’s most fabulous landscapes. A marvelous steam railway with easier access to and from Manchester city centre is the East Lancashire Railway , it can be reached in around half an hour by taking the trams to Bury that operate every 5 - 15 minutes

A round trip by day to Windermere and Keswick

Or in just over two hours from Piccadilly and Oxford Road stations, you can be enjoying a day out in the fabulous Lake District, by taking direct trains to Windermere - in the hours when no direct trains are available, there are simple as can be connections to be made in Oxenholme. For easy access to the beauty spots in the southern part of the Lake District national park, from Windermere station there are buses on to Ambleside , Coniston and Grasmere and Keswick . From Keswick there are frequent buses to Penrith North Lakes station , which has direct trains back to Manchester, so it can be worth looking up the bus and train timetables in order to make a glorious round trip to and from Keswick.

A round trip by day to Ullswater, Windermere and The Lakeside Railway

Or another easy day trip itinerary is:

• take the train which leaves from Piccadilly and Oxford Road stations at around 09:30 on the lovely journey to Penrith North Lakes station.

• Then take one of Britain's most glorious bus journeys on route 508 to Bowness-on-Windermere, the bus travels along the west shore of Ullswater and then up and over the stunning Kirkstone Pass.
• It stops right by the piers which the Windermere lake cruises depart from.
• Take the boat over to Lakeside and you can also take a ride on the Lakeside Railway .
• Have some food/drink in of the many cafes and restaurants in Bowness and take a local bus up to Windermere station.
• Board the 18:56 train which is direct to Manchester.

to the Pennine Way at Edale

Another stunningly beautiful national park with easy access by train from Manchester is the Peak District . Hourly trains from Piccadilly station can take you into the heart of the park at charming Edale in around 50 minutes, where multiple scenic walking trails begin and end.

to the Peak District Or another destination with hourly trains from Piccadilly is wonderful Buxton , it’s a beautiful town and buses on routes across the Peak District depart from a stop by the station, the journey by train from Manchester will take around an hour.

to Blackpool

Or for a different kind of thrill, follow in the footsteps of thousands of Mancunians by taking the train from Piccadilly and Oxford Road stations to the boisterous seaside resort of Blackpool the journey will take less than 90 minutes and there are usually two departures per hour

This second version of ShowMeTheJourney is exciting and new, so we are genuinely thrilled that you are here and reading this, but we also need your help. We’re striving not to let anything get in the way of providing the most useful service possible, hence a facility has been set up with DonorBox which can be used to support the running costs and make improvements.

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Simon Harper

I wanted to share my passion for train travel and explain how anyone can take the fantastic journeys I have taken.

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Help keep us advertising and paywall free!

This second version of ShowMeTheJourney is exciting and new, so we are genuinely thrilled that you are here and reading this, but we also need your help.

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12 Best Day trips from London by train (+logistics, tips & maps)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: March 13, 2023

Are you planning to take some day trips from London by train but unsure where to go? Discover 12 of the very best places to visit by rail including practical tips, logistics, and things to do and see in each destination.

What better way to explore some of the most beautiful cities , towns, landmarks and attractions of England than to hop on a train from London for a day trip? While there are lots of sights and places to keep you busy in London we recommend (if you have time) adding some of these day trips into your itinerary.

With numerous destinations and places to go by train from London, how do you pick the right one/s for you?

In this guide, we have chosen 12 of the very best places to visit on a day trip by train from London. These are our top picks of the best tourist destinations, landmarks and sights you can visit on a one day trip from London.

If you prefer to avoid public transport discover our choice of the best day trips you can take from London on a tour.

To help plan your day we have included logistics and practical information about how to travel to each destination – which London station to depart from, the length of the journey, and the very best things to do and see in one day at each of the places.

You will also find a helpful map showing the location of each destination and route of each of these London day trips by train.

Good to know – if you plan to make multiple train trips from London it may be cost-effective to purchase a BritRail London Plus Pass which is valid on rail services in the South East of England. The BritRail London Plus pass is ideal for short journeys outside of London. Click here for more information about BritRail passes.

If you are pushed for time or nervous about travelling outside of London by train the best option for you may be to take a tour. Tours often visit several places so you can see more and make the most of your time especially if you have a limited number of days.

Find out more in our guide to the best day tours from London which includes the most popular tourist and sightseeing destinations including how to visit Harry Potter Studios from London .

Guide to UK Train Travel

Quick picks – summary of train trips from london.

• One day in Oxford (Must see Oxford attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Oxford by train

• One day in Cambridge (Must see Cambridge attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Cambridge by train

One day in the cotswolds (must-see cotswold attractions), logistics – how to get from london to moreton-in-marsh by train.

• One day in Winchester (Must see Winchester attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Winchester by train

• One day in Windsor (Must see Windsor attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Windsor by train

• One day in St Albans (Must see St Albans attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to St Albans by train

• One day in Brighton (Must see Brighton attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Brighton by train

• One day in Bath (Must see Bath attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Bath by train

• One day in Bristol (Must see Bristol attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Bristol by train

• One day in Salisbury (Must see Salisbury attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Salisbury by train

• One day in Canterbury (Must see Canterbury attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Canterbury by train

• One day in Stratford-upon-Avon (Must see Stratford attractions)

Logistics – how to get from London to Stratford by train

Guide to uk train travel, how can i save money on train travel in the uk, more train travel suggestions for the uk, london travel guide & itinerary planner (+ 4 bonus ebooks).

Are you excited but nervous about travelling by train in the UK? We have written a book to help you!

Our guide includes practical tips and information to ensure you make the most of your UK rail adventure (including where and how to buy tickets, information for your day of travel and 12 ‘done for you’ UK rail itineraries.)

You can read more about our ebook here.

Good for – History | Architecture | Harry Potter fans

A journey time of just over an hour makes Oxford the perfect destination for an easy one-day train trip from London.

Once in Oxford, you will find the main attractions all located in the compact and very walkable city centre. Known as the “City of Spires” due to its beautiful skyline enjoy the beautiful architecture and fascinating history on your day trip to Oxford.

One day in Oxford ( Must see Oxford attractions )

• Oxford University

Founded in the 13th century Oxford University is one of the most famous universities in the world. Alumni include numerous international heads of state including 26 British Prime Ministers,  Nobel prize winners, famous authors, and many well-known actors.

I recommend exploring the colleges on a walking tour to soak in the scholarly atmosphere of this famous seat of learning.

Oxford University is comprised of 38 colleges varying in size from the larger Magdelen and Christ Church Colleges to the smaller colleges such as Corpus Christi and Trinity.

Fans of Harry Potter movies may recognise some of the colleges which were used as film locations for many famous scenes.

• Bodleian Library

The Bodleian Library is one of the oldest in Europe and the second-largest in the UK. It contains a collection of 12 million items – in fact, every book that has ever been printed in the UK and Ireland is located in the library!

Good to know – Most of Oxford’s walking tours include a visit to this famous library.

• Radcliffe Camera

The interestingly named Radcliffe Camera houses Oxford University’s Science Library. This neo-classical style building was built between 1737 and 1749 and is beautiful both inside and out. It comprises part of the larger Bodleian Library.

• The Covered Market 

Opened in 1774 the market houses lots of shops and stalls to browse as well as a great choice of eateries. This is the place to stop for a coffee break or a bite to eat before resuming your exploration of Oxford.

• Blenheim Palace

If you decide to spend a little longer in the city (Oxford is popular for weekend trips from London by train) I would highly recommend including a trip to Blenheim Palace in your itinerary. A short ride from Oxford by bus the palace was the birthplace of Winston Churchill and is owned by the Duke of Marlborough.

Read more – Oxford Travel Guide

• Distance from London: 52 miles / 83 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour
• Leave from: London Paddington Station / London Marylebone

Good for – History | Architecture | A day on the river

The location of another famous university (and Oxford’s rival in the boat race each year) Cambridge is also only an hour by direct trains from London.

Cambridge is a compact city that is perfect for exploring on foot. We recommend taking a historical walking tour of the city with a University graduate where you can visit some of the most famous colleges in Cambridge and learn more about student life at one of the world’s most prestigious universities.

One day in Cambridge ( Must see Cambridge attractions )

Take a punt along the River Cam. A great way to see the city and even better you can hire someone to do the punting for you so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the views.

• King’s College Chapel

Home of the largest vault ceiling in the world King’s College Chapel is an absolute must-see in Cambridge.

Of particular note is the Rood Screen (a large wooden screen that separates the nave from the altar) which Henry VIII gave his 2nd bride Anne Boleyn.

• St John’s College, King’s College, Trinity College

Cambridge University like its main rival Oxford is also comprised of a number of colleges (31 to be exact)

St John’s, King’s, and Trinity College are just some of the colleges worth exploring.

Read more – Cambridge Travel Guide

• Distance from London: 49 miles / 79 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour 17 mins
• Leave from: London King’s Cross/London Liverpool Street Train Station

The Cotswolds

Good for – Pretty villages | Countryside | Afternoon tea | Thatched cottages

The Cotswolds are not one place but actually an area stretching over 2000 km so if you are planning to visit from London I would recommend hiring a car and taking a road trip.

Tours of the Cotswolds are also available which include visits to most of the most picturesque and quaint towns and villages (plus include other attractions such as Oxford and Windsor on the way)

However, if you prefer to travel to what many consider England’s prettiest towns and villages independently it is possible to see some of the area by train.

The easiest destination to travel to by train from London is the market town of Moreton-in-Marsh which is located in the heart of the Cotswolds.

There are so many things to do and places to see in the Cotswolds it will be difficult to fit them all into one day. However, these are my recommendations if you arrive at Moreton-in-Marsh.

• Market Day (Tuesday)

Arrive on a Tuesday and the town will be bustling with its weekly market. Enjoy a stroll through the market and purchase a souvenir or gift in one of the many shops before partaking in tea and cake at one of the many quaint cafes and teahouses.

• Batsford Arboretum

Located 1.5 miles west of the town the arboretum is full of rare and endangered species from around the world. Tip – if you are visiting the area in spring don’t miss the Japanese cherry blossoms.

• Chipping Campden

Located a short bus ride from Moreton is the pretty medieval Cotswold town of Chipping Campden. If honey-coloured buildings spring to mind when you think of the Cotswolds you will find them in abundance here. The famous Cotswolds Way also stretches for 100 miles from Chipping Campden to Bath but you will need a week to do that!

Read more – Cotswold Travel Guide

• Distance from London: 90 miles / 140 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour 40 mins
• Leave from: London Paddington Train Station

Good for – Architecture | History | Monuments | Literary connections

Winchester is home to one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. Founded in 1079 the structure has been remodelled over the centuries and has Romanesque and Gothic styles throughout.

Winchester Cathedral is also famously the resting place of Jane Austen.

There is a lot to see in the cathedral including the crypt, home to Anthony Gormley’s famous sculpture Sound II, visiting Jane Austen’s grave, and admiring the Winchester Bible an 800- year-old manuscript.

One day in Winchester ( Must see Winchester attractions )

• Winchester Cathedral

As I mentioned above there is a lot to see in Winchester cathedral. I would recommend taking one of the tours to learn all about the history as it is so interesting. After his successful invasion of England William the Conquerer was crowned king in Winchester Cathedral in 1066.

Don’t miss Anthony Gormley’s sculpture Sound II in the crypt. If you are a fan of the novelist Jane Austen , who lived in Winchester, you will find her grave within the cathedral.

• The Great Hall

The Great Hall is a 13th-century aisled hall that contains one of the most iconic symbols linked to the legends of King Arthur – the Round Table.

Read more – Winchester Travel Guide

• Distance from London: 60 miles / 96 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour 14 mins
• Leave from: London Waterloo

• Windsor Castle

Good for – History lovers | Fans of the Royal Family

One of the most popular destinations for visitors to London and the UK is Windsor Castle. It is one of seven magnificent castles near London which are worth a visit.

A visit to Windsor Castle is also included in many organised day tours too. If you are pushed for time and wish to combine other destinations such as Oxford and the Cotswolds we recommend booking a tour such as this one.

One day in Windsor ( Must see Windsor attractions )

Windsor Castle is one of the official residences of the Queen and also the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Look for the Royal Standard flying above the castle – it indicates that the Queen is at home.

St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle is where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle wed in 2018.

Plan to spend 2 hours to visit the castle.

• Frogmore House and Gardens

This grand country house is located within the grounds of Home Park in Windsor half a mile from the castle. The house and has belonged to the royal family since the 16th century.

Many members of the Royal family including Queen Victoria are buried in at Frogmore.

The house and grounds are open to the public on certain days of the year.

Frogmore Cottage located on the grounds is the English home of Prince Harry and Meghan and is a private residence and not open to the public.

• Distance from London: 21 miles / 34 km
• Time taken by train: 55 mins 
• Leave from: London Waterloo to Eton Riverside Station 

Good for – History lovers

The market town of St Albans in Hertfordshire is the closest city to London.

St Albans is only minutes from the capital (a 20-minute train ride from London St Pancras to be exact) which makes it an easy day trip if you want to only spend a few hours out of the capital.

St Albans was the site of the Roman settlement of Verulamium and remains which can be seen today include a Roman wall, theatre and impressive mosaics.

One day in St Albans ( Must see St Albans attractions )

• St Albans Cathedral

St Albans Cathedral was built in 1077 and is the second largest cathedral in England (after Winchester) It is the oldest site of continuous Christian worship in England.

Located in the cathedral is the shrine of St Alban after whom the city is named. Look for the medieval wall paintings that adorn the walls which are amongst the oldest in existence.

• Verulamium Museum

If you have an interest in Roman history visiting the Verulamium Museum is a must. Filled with an extensive collection of ancient treasures and fine mosaics you can immerse yourself in Roman life as it was in England over 2000 years ago.

• Distance from London: 19 miles / 30 km
• Time taken by train: 30 mins 
• Leave from: London St Pancras International

Good for – Shopping | History | Architecture | Art | Street art | Foodies | Seaside

Brighton is the closest city to London located on the south coast of the UK . It has buckets of charm and character and is home to the fascinating and ostentatiously beautiful Brighton Pavilion .

This is one of the most popular train rides from London especially during the summer months when city dwellers head to the coast.

Plan a full day – enjoy the sights and take a break in one of the many bars, cafes and restaurants to choose from in Brighton.

A trip to enjoy the Seven Sisters Cliffs in the South Downs National Park is popular for visitors heading to the south coast – take a tour from Brighton to see these beautiful white cliffs.

One day in Brighton ( Must see Brighton attractions )

• The Brighton Pavilion

Do not miss the chance to visit the Brighton Pavilion . Built by King George IV (during his time as Prince Regent) at a considerable cost the pavilion is opulently decorated and filled to the brim with exquisite furnishings.

Packed with plenty of restaurants, tea rooms, pubs, and shops the narrow alleyways that make up The Lanes are a shopper’s paradise.

• Brighton Palace Pier

Opened in 1899 the famous pier is 525 metres long, Grade II listed, and an iconic symbol of Brighton.

Read more – Brighton Travel Guide

• Distance from London: 47 miles / 75 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour 22 mins
• Leave from: London Blackfriars/ London Victoria

Good for – Romantics | Architecture | History lovers

Although a little further away from London than some of the other day-trip destinations suggested in this post (taking on average 2 and a half hours by train) Bath is a n immensely popular destination , World Heritage Site and absolutely worth a day trip (at the very least).

Bath is also a city included in our 14-day train trip itinerary around Great Britain.

One day in Bath ( Must see Bath attractions )

• Visit the Roman Baths

Built over 2000 years ago the Roman Baths are one of England’s most popular tourist attractions. Plan at least 2 hours to explore the Roman Temple, Bath House, Sacred Spring, and museum.

The Grand Pump Room next to the Roman Baths serves refreshments including afternoon tea (book in advance)

• Admire the Royal Crescent

This row of 30 houses laid out in a crescent shape is officially known as the Royal Crescent . Built between 1767 and 1774 the houses are a beautiful example of Georgian architecture.

Whilst some of the houses are private residences No.1 Royal Crescent is a museum and No. 16 is the Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa.

Afterwards, take a boat ride along the River Avon to admire the shop-lined Poultney Bridge.

Read more – Bath in one day (complete itinerary)

• Distance from London: 94 miles / 152 km
• Time taken by train: 2 hours 28 mins
• Leave from: London Paddington

Good for – Museums | Art | Street Art | Architecture

Bristol is synonymous with 2 very different famous figures – one is Isambard Kingdom Brunel who was of the most prolific mechanical and civil engineers in history and the other is the street artist and political activist known as Banksy .

One day in Bristol ( Must see Bristol attractions )

• Clifton Suspension Bridge

Designed by Brunel this 150-year-old suspension bridge is a toll bridge linking Clifton in Bristol with Leigh Woods in North Somerset.   

• Bristol Shopping Quarter

Visit the Bristol Shopping Quarte r home to hundreds of shops, restaurants, cafes, and attractions – shop, eat, drink and enjoy!

• Take a walking tour of Banksy’s art 

If you are a fan of Banksy’s work I highly recommend doing one of 3 great free walking tours written by some Bristol locals to guide you around the work. Bristol’s city walls are covered in murals too.

Read more – Bristol Travel Guide

• Distance from London: 104 miles / 167 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour 49 mins

Salisbury & Stonehenge

Good for – Architecture | Stonehenge | History lovers | Market

If you are planning a London day trip by train to visit the prehistoric monument of Stonehenge your first destination will be beautiful Salisbury.

This cathedral city has a market day every Tuesday held in the city centre. Salisbury Charter Market is held outdoors in all weathers throughout the year.

One day in Salisbury ( Must see Salisbury attractions )

• Salisbury Cathedral

Not only a beautiful cathedral in its own right but also the home of one of only four Magna Carta documents in the world Salisbury Cathedral is a must-visit if you are in the city. Don’t miss the spire which is the tallest church spire in the UK.

Not far from Salisbury is one of England’s most famous and popular tourist attractions – Stonehenge . The ancient stone circle dates back thousands of years and is one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments.

Good to know – There are no direct trains from London to Stonehenge. Once you arrive in Salisbury jump onto the Stonehenge Tour Bus at the train station for the transfer to Stonehenge.

Read more – A complete guide to visiting Stonehenge (and Salisbury)

• Distance from London: 79 miles / 126 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour 33 mins

Good for – History |Museums | Tudor buildings

UNESCO World Heritage-listed Canterbury Cathedral was a place of Christian pilgrimage during the Middle Ages following the murder of Thomas Becket within its walls.

Founded in 597 AD Canterbury Cathedral is the headquarters of the Anglican Church .

Associated with the works of Middle Ages English poet and author Geoffrey Chaucer whose Canterbury Tales are a collection of 24 stories recounted by 30 pilgrims as they make their way to Canterbury.

One day in Canterbury ( Must see Canterbury attractions )

• Visit Canterbury Cathedral

Canterbury Cathedral has a long and interesting history including surviving the dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII and an extensive bombing campaign during WWII.

The Cathedral is the Mother Church of the Anglican community worldwide and the Archbishop of Canterbury presides at its head.

• Stroll the medieval centre of Canterbury

The medieval centre of Canterbury is surrounded by ancient walls which were originally built by the Romans. Stroll through the medieval centre and admire its cobbled streets and timber-framed houses.

Read more – Canterbury Travel Guide

• Distance from London: 54 miles / 87 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour 47 mins
• Leave from: London Charing Cross/ London St Pancras International

Stratford-upon-Avon

Good for – History | Architecture | Theatre | Lovers of Shakespeare

Stratford-upon -Avon is famous as the birthplace and home of William Shakespeare (1564-1616 )

Good to know – For those interested to learn more about Shakespeare’s connections with the town we recommend taking the hop-on-hop-off bus tour .

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon ( Must see Stratford attractions )

• Shakespeare’s birthplace

Visit the house where Shakespeare was born and raised. Located on Henley Street this is the home in which John and Mary Shakespeare raised 8 children!

• Anne Hathaway’s Cottage 

The beautiful thatched cottage was the home of Shakespeare’s wife Anne Hathaway . Located about a mile from Stratford it is included in the hop-on-hop-off bus routes around Stratford.

• Church of the Holy Trinity

To see Shakespeare final resting place head to the Church of the Holy Trinity.

Read more – Stratford-upon-Avon Travel Guide

• Distance from London: 83 miles / 133 km
• Time taken by train: 2 hours 27 mins
• Leave from: London Euston/ London Marylebone

FAQs & Tips for train travel in the UK

If this is your first time travelling by train in the UK we recommend that you read our complete guide to rail travel in the UK which contains practical, no-nonsense advice.

In it, you will find the answers to some of the commonly asked questions such as:

• How and where do I purchase train tickets in the UK?
• How do I know what platform the train leaves from?
• How do I find my train carriage and seat?
• How accessible are trains in the UK?
• How will I know where to alight the train?

The guide was written by Doug Collins (one of the founders of this website) who worked in the UK rail industry for 25 years and travelled on nearly every line across the network.

Our guides to getting around London on public transport plus an article about the 9 main train stations in London (such as Kings Cross Station, Paddington Station and St Pancras International) and our complete guide to transportation options in the UK are also recommended reading.

Purchase a rail pass

Although train travel in the UK is not cheap there is a range of train passes and railcards and options available to make it more affordable for both visitors and UK residents.

Read more about the various train passes available for overseas visitors to the UK – read more about BritRail Passes here.

Purchase tickets in advance

Buy tickets as far in advance as possible as prices tend to rise near to the date of travel. Always check that there are no last-minute changes (such as train works*) on your day of travel.

I recommend buying train tickets for the UK from the trainline . They s ell tickets for all the rail companies in the UK and Europe (unlike Europe the rail network in the UK is privatised so there are numerous companies who organise trains across the UK.)

* During public holidays essential rail maintenance is completed so check before you book/ travel in case of any delays. Often the rail service is replaced by buses and this could add considerably to your travel time.

You can find more train travel inspiration for the UK in our guide to the top 10 rail journeys to take in Britain!

If you are a history lover you may also wish to visit some of the beautiful castles located near London including Windsor Castle, Warwick Castle , Dover Castle (why not see Dover’s famous white cliffs too?) or Sudeley Castle in the Cotswolds .

If you are adventurous it is possible to visit Paris (and see the Eiffel Tower or take a stroll along the Seine) from London for a day trip. This is one of the Eurostar day trips from London to consider (Amsterdam and Brussels are also possible) and while it is tiring I would say DO IT!

You can find out more about organising a trip to Paris from London in our guide here.

We also have more information about travelling on the Eurostar too.

13 BEST Day Trips from London by Train

From the roman city of bath to the wilds of the new forest, there are so many amazing day trips from london by train to discover.

Honestly, when I’m in London, I am 100% not using a car. Whether it’s riding on the Tube, hailing a taxi, or just wandering around the city centre, driving is not something I’m likely to do.

So, when I want to get outside of the city for the day, I rely on the train. Over the years, I’ve compiled a list of the best day trips from London by train. Maybe you want to hit the beach? Perhaps you want to dive into history? Or maybe you want to check out a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Within a couple of hours’ ride from London, you can do all of that!

Some of my favourite train trips from London include heading into the picturesque Cotswolds regions, hiking the Seven Sisters near Dover, and even casting a spell or two at the Harry Potter Studio Tour.

The best part? You can hop on a train, enjoy the scenic journey through the English countryside, and be back in London in time for a West End show or a late-night stroll along the Thames. The accessibility of these day trips is what makes them truly special—it’s like having a variety of mini adventures right at your doorstep.

So, with that in mind, let’s check out the best train trips from London. Hopefully this blog post will help you with planning your next day trip.

Day trips from London by train

Hampton court palace.

Looking to check out the palace where King Henry VIII used to reign supreme? This London day trip favourite is always popular with history buffs visiting the capital thanks to the beautiful architecture, art, and knowledgeable guides. It’s also a super easy train ride from the centre of London. 

In fact, it’s just a 45-minute ride from London Waterloo Station directly to Hampton Court Palace train station and from there, it’s only around a five-minute walk to the palace gates. Day trips from London by train don’t come much easier than this!

If you’re heading to Hampton Court, you can pick up your tickets here beforehand.

Harry Potter Studio Tours

Want to experience the magic in front of and behind the camera? Well then, a visit to the Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studio Tour in Watford is a must. Filled with memorabilia, props, sets, and costumes from the films, it’s every fan’s dream. 

To get to the studios, you’ll journey for about 20 minutes from London Euston Station to Watford Junction, and then jump on the 15-minute shuttle to the studio. The bonus is that the shuttle is actually designed like the famous Knight Bus, so the experience starts before you even arrive. All aboard!

This legendary Roman city is a beautiful train trip from London as it’s only 90 minutes from London Paddington Station. Home to the Roman Baths UNESCO World Heritage Site, stunning architecture, and the home of the iconic author, Jane Austen, there’s certainly a little something for everyone on a day trip to Bath.

You can easily spend a full weekend here, but with the regular train routes back to the capital that run relatively late, you can definitely enjoy a full day running around this historic city.

The Seven Sisters

As one of the UK’s most iconic sights, the Seven Sisters white chalky cliffs near Dover are an easy train trip from London. You can travel from London Victoria Station and get off at Eastbourne, allowing you to wander along the coastline and see the Seven Sisters in all their glory. 

Trains to Eastbourne take around an hour and 25 minutes from London, and then you can enjoy a stunning coastal hike to your final destination!

Windsor Castle

Love royal history or are you just a fan of insanely old castles? Well, Windsor Castle is one of the King’s royal residences and is over 900 years old. This impressive palace has played host to royal weddings, including Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s.

Windsor Castle is super popular at pretty much any time of the year, so I definitely recommend getting your tickets in advance . This will also let you know when the royal family are in residence, as you might not be able to access the full castle and grounds. Travel-wise, Windsor Castle is around an hour from London Waterloo station. 

If you’re looking to check out another bustling city, journey between one and a half to two hours from London Paddington Station to Bristol. Home to the impressive Clifton Suspension Bridge, a bustling independent food and drink scene, and a fun and thriving waterfront, Bristol is an ideal day trip from London by train. 

Make sure you take time to check out all the street art around the city, after all, the city is the hometown of famous artist, Banksy!

Leeds Castle

This next train trip from London is a little more complicated to get to, but if you’re visiting Kent, you can’t leave without checking out Leeds Castle . Get the 50-minute train from London Bridge to Maidstone and then jump on a short 20-minute bus ride to the gates of Leeds Castle.

With a super cool hedge maze, museum, lake, and more, this Norman Castle is a popular day trip for a good reason. Again, I’d recommend booking your ticket in advance , especially during the school holidays.   

Looking for a fun day at the seaside? Well, you’ll be hard-pushed to find a better day trip than Brighton . Located on the south coast around an hour from either London Victoria Station or London Bridge Station, Brighton is always bustling with things to do.

From the opulent and historic Brighton Palace Pier to the popular waterfront and beach to the dozens of independent boutiques and restaurants, you’re really spoiled for choice here!

Warwick Castle

If you’re looking for a train trip from London that’s a little further north, jump on the train to Warwick Castle. You can get a one hour and 45-minute train from London Marylebone to Warwick and then walk to the castle gates.

With the original parts of the castle stemming back to 1068, Warwick Castle has seen a lot of bloody battles, royalty, and history along the way. Nowadays, you can experience archery, falconry shows, renactments of medieval battles, and many more. It’s the perfect family-friendly day trip, but again, book way in advance !

As one of the academic heartlands of England, Oxford is a beautiful and architecturally stunning city to visit. Whether you’re a Harry Potter fan who wants to visit the real Great Hall or you’re in love with the His Dark Materials series, Oxford has inspired a lot of writers and academics over the years.

Oxford is actually really easy to get to on a day trip from London by train. Depending on which is closer or more convenient, you can get a train from either from Marylebone Station or Paddington Station, and both routes are around an hour. 

The New Forest

Need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and get back to the nature? Well, a day trip to the New Forest is going to be right up your street. You can get a 90-minute train from London Waterloo station to Brockenhurst, in the heart of the New Forest.

With tons of wildlife, walking routes, and museums in the area, you can easily have a fun-filled day surrounded by tranquil greenery.  Keep in mind that the National Park is huge and spreads all the way down to the coastline, so make a plan of the areas you want to visit first!

When you think of quintessential English towns and villages, the image that comes up is probably of the Cotswolds . Located just an hour and 40 minutes from London Paddington Station, the Cotswolds is the perfect quaint escape from the city. With chocolate box cottages, hiking and walking routes and plenty of cosy pubs to warm up in, it’s an amazing day out for the whole family.

In fact, the Cotswolds is actually an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so you might want to bring your camera with you! It’s also rumoured that parts of the Cotswolds inspired J.R.R Tolkien when he was writing The Lord of the Rings!

Stratford-Upon-Avon

If you’re a literature lover then you have to carve out time in your itinerary to visit Stratford-Upon-Avon. This small town in the Midlands is known for basically one thing and that’s being the home of the iconic playwright, William Shakespeare.

Located around two and a half hours from London Marylebone Station, Stratford-Upon-Avon is home to the Royal Shakespeare Company who perform works of the Bard all year round. It’s a prestigious theatre and has featured actors like Dame Judi Dench, Sir Ian McKellen, and David Tennant to name just a few! Check out the RSC website ahead of time to find out what’s on while you’re in the area!

So, there you have it, the 13 best day trips from London by train. Where are your favourite day trips from London without a car? Let me know in the comments below!

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Train strikes in May 2024: Full list of dates and lines affected

Rail lines are set for disruption in the week following the first May bank holiday as train drivers at 16 rail companies strike on different days.

Thursday 25 April 2024 10:29, UK

Train drivers will stage a fresh wave of strikes and overtime bans in May, causing disruption to the rail network.

The strikes are part of a long-running dispute over pay.

Members of Aslef union at 16 rail companies will walk out on different days from 7 to 9 May.

Additionally, all members will refuse to work any overtime from 6 May to 11 May.

Here is a full list of the services affected by strikes and when.

Rail strike dates

Tuesday 7 May

Strikes will affect c2c, Greater Anglia, GTR Great Northern Thameslink, Southeastern, Southern, Gatwick Express and South Western Railway.

Wednesday 8 May

Strikes will affect Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Great Western Railway and West Midlands Trains.

Thursday 9 May

Strikes will affect LNER, Northern Trains and TransPennine Express.

Overtime ban dates

From Monday 6 May to Saturday 11 May union members will not work overtime.

Overtime bans, an action short of a strike, means some services may not be running or may be reduced as drivers refuse to work their rest days.

People are advised to check before they travel, as some areas may have no service.

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

How do strikes and overtime bans affect services?

Strikes tend to mean services on lines where members are participating are extremely affected or cancelled entirely, whereas overtime bans often lead to reduced services.

Are there strikes on the Tube too?

There have been regular strikes on London Underground too recently, and while there aren't any planned walkouts for drivers, customer service managers are set to walk out on Friday 26 April in a dispute over terms and conditions.

There will also be an overtime ban for the customer service managers on the following days:

Monday 29 April

Tuesday 30 April

Wednesday 1 May

Tuesday 2 May

Wednesday 3 May

Thursday 4 May

Friday 5 May

The Transport Salaried Staffs' Association (TSSA) says the action by its members is likely to cause Tube stations to close at the last minute, including on the Saturday following the strike (27 April), while TfL has said on its website "some stations may need to close at short notice".

Despite the warning, a TfL spokesperson has said they aren't expecting significant disruption.

This action follows strike action taken by the same workers on 10 April, which the TSSA said had a "real impact" with "many stations shut at short notice".

They say they are "extremely concerned" about TfL's 'Stations Changes' proposals.

"We have made it clear that our union will not accept the continued threats to our members' roles, locations, terms, and conditions to stand unchallenged," a TSSA spokesperson said.

"We will continue to take sustained action until London Underground is prepared to negotiate with us in good faith."

Commenting on the impending strikes, a TfL spokesperson said: "We are disappointed that TSSA is continuing with this strike action following a consultation process.

"While we don't expect this action will cause significant disruption, we urge TSSA to continue to work with us to help find a resolution.

"There are no planned job losses as part of these vital changes which will improve the service we provide to customers at our stations."

How can I stay in the loop?

You can use the National Rail's journey planner to see when trains are running.

Be sure to check it close to when you plan to travel, as it will be updated regularly.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free

Why are the strikes still happening?

Aslef rejected a two-year offer of 4% in 2022 and another 4% this year, saying it is way below inflation, and is linked to changes in terms and conditions.

Aslef said train drivers have not had an increase in salary for five years, since their last pay deals expired in 2019.

The union said after its members voted overwhelmingly in February to continue taking industrial action, it asked the train operating companies to hold talks.

General secretary Mick Whelan said the year-old pay offer of 4% and another 4% was "dead in the water".

Related Topics

• London Underground
• Rail strikes

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Aslef drivers to hold more train strikes in early May

Rolling 24-hour walkouts to halt many services on c2c, Thameslink, Southeastern, LNER and more

Train drivers will strike again in early May in a series of rolling 24-hour walkouts that will bring many services around Great Britain to a halt.

The Aslef union has called a set of strikes from 7 May to 9 May across all the national rail operators contracted to the Department for Transport (DfT), falling within a six-day overtime ban that is also likely to cause severe disruption on some networks.

The industrial action is part of the long-running pay dispute , with some train drivers now going five years without a pay increase.

Most operators will not run any trains on strike days. Although the strikes are at the English operators under the DfT, cross-border services to Wales and Scotland will also be hit on relevant days.

Aslef members voted overwhelmingly in February to continue industrial action.

The union’s general secretary, Mick Whelan, said: “It is now a year since we sat in a room with the train companies – and a year since we rejected the risible offer they made and which they admitted, privately, was designed to be rejected.”

Drivers were offered a two-year deal worth 4% annually, but with changes to working conditions attached. The rise was less than that offered to other parts of the industry in percentage terms.

Whelan said the government’s argument that the offer should have been put to members was disingenuous, given the repeated strike votes.

Drivers will first strike at c2c, Greater Anglia, Great Northern, Thameslink, Southeastern, Southern/Gatwick Express and South Western Railway on Tuesday 7 May.

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It will be followed by a 24-hour walkout at Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Great Western Railway and West Midlands Trains on Wednesday 8 May; and at LNER, Northern and TransPennine Express on Thursday 9 May.

The wave of action is the fourth week of rolling strikes staged by Aslef since December, after it altered its tactics in a dispute that has lasted almost two years.

A spokesperson for the Rail Delivery Group, representing train operators, said: “This wholly unnecessary strike action called by the Aslef leadership will sadly disrupt customers and businesses once again, while further damaging the railway at a time when taxpayers are continuing to contribute an extra £54m a week just to keep services running.”

• Rail strikes
• Rail transport
• Rail industry
• Industrial action
• Trade unions

More on this story

Only 40 LNER intercity rail services to run on Saturday as train drivers strike

Aslef’s final strike day disrupts rail services in south and east England

Aslef says more train strikes likely as drivers’ pay row continues

Rail passengers face rolling strikes but London Underground action called off

Train drivers at Northern and LNER to strike in March, Aslef union announces

Weekend rail strikes: travel disrupted across Great Britain

Train drivers will keep striking to ‘raise profile’ of pay dispute, says Aslef boss

Weekend rail strikes and overtime ban disrupt UK travel

Rail strikes: trains in south-east England halted as rolling stoppages begin

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UK’s most expensive train journeys – and how we spend more than rest of Europe

A rail trip from cardiff to aberdeen costs £290, when tickets are bought the day before, while a berlin-dresden ticket is priced at just £9.

Rail costs for passengers in the UK are among some of the highest in Europe, with the most expensive single fare costing close to £300.

All 10 of the most expensive fares for a next-day, standard-class single in rush hour were higher than £200 when i searched on the Trainline website on Wednesday night.

Meanwhile, passengers travelling in mainland Europe usually pay significantly less. According to analysis by Euronews, Germany, Denmark and Sweden are among the cheapest western European countries offering the most affordable tickets on the same day as the journey.

Our list of the 10 most expensive tickets in the UK: Cardiff to Aberdeen £290 Edinburgh to Exmouth £285.70 Edinburgh to Digby & Sowton £285.70 Edinburgh to Neath £250.30 Edinburgh to Bridgend £250.30 Edinburgh to Pontypridd £250.00 London Kings Cross to Inverness £227.40 London Euston to Aberdeen £226.20 Manchester Piccadilly to Didcot Parkway £221 London Kings Cross to Dundee £213.20 All prices are for a next-day, standard-class single ticket in rush hour.

Trains in Spain, Italy and Portugal were also significantly less expensive, with Latvia, Poland and Hungary offering the cheapest tickets in Europe.

i found travelling between Madrid to Barcelona costs just £53 when a standard-class single ticket is bought the night before leaving the Spanish capital.

Passengers in the UK, though, have to pay up to double (£106) when making the equivalent trip in miles from London to Edinburgh.

In Germany, it costs just £9 to travel 120 miles from Berlin to Dresden, while for a similar journey from London to Birmingham , passengers have to spend £35.

Elsewhere, in France, a train ticket from Paris to Lyon costs £98, while an equivalent journey from Edinburgh to Bath could set you back up to £135.

Travellers can get from Paris to Bordeaux for £73, while the equivalent UK trip from Glasgow to Oxford costs £119.

Lisbon to Faro costs £23, while a similar journey from Liverpool to Durham costs £49.

Labour's rail nationalisation plan will put our trains back on track

And, while rail passengers have to pay over £100 for a trip from Rome to Milan, a ticket from Milan to Venice is priced at just £51 during rush hour – when an equivalent trip from London to Cardiff would cost around £56.

Crossing two borders from Amsterdam to Paris can be done for £77, while the Eurostar journey from London to Paris – which covers 30 miles less – costs £218.

In the UK, a study released by the Trades Union Congress in 2019 showed how rail fares had risen by 46 per cent over the previous 10 years, while nominal weekly earnings increased by only 23 per cent.

“We’re already paying the highest ticket prices in Europe to travel on overcrowded and understaffed trains,” said TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady at the time.

In a bid to dampen the soaring prices, Labour will commit to bringing Britain’s railways back under public ownership for the first time in 30 years within weeks of coming to power, i revealed on Wednesday.

The party will include a new Railways Act in its first King’s Speech , to demonstrate to voters that it will deliver on its promise to renationalise the rail system within a first term of government “without the taxpayer paying a penny in compensation costs”.

Under the plans, the legislation will set the legal framework to enable a future Labour government to allow existing rail contracts to expire and be taken under the control of a new arm’s-length body, Great British Railways

Such a move would allow the new publicly owned rail system to offer a “best-price ticket guarantee”, bringing an end to the practice of rail firms setting inflated ticket prices, Labour proposes.

The proposals will be backed by a new consumer watchdog, called the Passenger Standards Authority.

Prices were sourced the day before for a rush-hour single ticket standard fare on Trainline or Omio and national rail operator websites for European journeys. Prices do vary from day to day and depending on when you buy your tickets.

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